Summer Fun on a Budget
“You can be childlike without being childish. A child always wants to have fun.
Ask yourself, Am I having fun? ”— Christopher Meloni
The thought of summer practically screams for being outside, but planning activities often comes with the anticipation of spending money.
But you know you don't have to spend a lot to have fun, right?
There's a moment I cherish when my daughter wondered aloud how cool it would be if fish could live and walk like other animals.
Gosh, I had never thought about that. It's moments like these that remind us of the magic in simple things. It got me thinking about the boundless imagination of children. They have this amazing ability to turn the simplest moments into grand adventures.
Remember when a rainy day meant sailing paper boats in puddles? Each ripple was a monstrous wave, and each leaf was an island waiting to be discovered. Or those blanket forts that were castles, with you as the ruler of your own kingdom, surrounded by stuffed animal subjects and pillow thrones.
That same spirit of imagination and wonder is something you can carry with you, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
In fact, studies show that it’s not more money that leads to more happiness, it’s HOW you spend your money that leads to more happiness.
According to a study by psychologist Elizabeth Dunn of the University of British Columbia, investing in enjoyable experiences offers lasting benefits compared to buying material possessions. While items lose their appeal over time, memories from experiences can be cherished indefinitely, providing anticipation before, enjoyment during, and fond recollection long after the event. Unlike possessions, memories don't fade with time or trigger regret. Spending on meaningful experiences yields enduring memories, maximizing the value of each dollar.
This shows that the magic of a moment isn't in its price tag, but in the experience itself.
So, how can you channel that childhood wonder and enjoy a fantastic summer without breaking the bank? This blog post will cover three main areas where you can enjoy summer on a budget: outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and food adventures.
See what you like and let them spark your creativity!
Outdoor Activities
Stargazing with a Twist
Instead of just looking at the stars, try star journaling. Sketch the constellations you see, write down your own stories about them, or create a constellation scavenger hunt to find specific ones. You can even hold a glow-in-the-dark stargazing party with friends, complete with glow sticks and face paint that mimics the constellations.
Build a Fairy Garden
Find a small, shaded area in your yard or garden and transform it into a whimsical fairyland. Use natural materials like pebbles, twigs, and leaves to create tiny houses, furniture, and pathways. Add colorful accents with small flowers, moss, and ladybugs.
Host a Backyard Movie Night
Turn your backyard into an open-air cinema. Hang a sheet on a clothesline or use a projector screen and invite friends and family for a cozy movie night under the stars. Don't forget the popcorn and snacks!
Cloud Gazing Competition
Lie down on your back in a park or field and let your imagination run wild. Look up at the clouds and see what shapes you can form. Hold a competition with friends or family to see who can come up with the most creative cloud formations - animals, objects, even entire scenes!
Sunrise/Sunset Hikes
Plan hikes to coincide with sunrise or sunset for beautiful scenery and great photos. The early or late hours also mean cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more enjoyable experience.
Arts and Crafts
Essential Oil Playdough for Kids
Summer’s here. Your kids are home all day and need something fun and interactive. This DIY combines simple ingredients with your favorite essential oils and promises many engaging afternoons. Use our referral code to get 25% off all year!
The One-Sentence Story Swap
Gather some friends and have everyone write down the opening sentence of a story. Then, pass the papers around the circle and let each person continue the story based on the previous sentence. Keep going for a few rounds and see where the collective story takes you!
The Borrowed Book Challenge
Challenge yourself to read books you wouldn't normally pick. Visit your local library and ask the librarian to recommend something unexpected. Borrow books from friends whose taste in literature differs from yours. You might discover a new favorite genre or author!
DIY Craft Nights
Host a craft night where everyone brings their own supplies. You could make friendship bracelets, paint mini canvases, or create scrapbook pages. It’s a fantastic way to socialize and create something unique without spending much.
Food Adventures
Recreate Family Recipes
Ask your mom for her mom's famous meatloaf recipe, or look online for a meal that your ancestors might have eaten. This is a beautiful practice on your own or with a group. When you're doing this, don't focus on perfection or an exact recreation. Remember, it's your own touch that makes it special.
Master Cheap (Chef)
Invite your friends or family to join in on the fun as you embark on a cooking adventure like no other. Here's how it works: participants gather together and decide on a dish to cook. But here's the twist – they must stick to a strict budget, whether it's $20, $50, or even less! Armed with creativity and a limited amount of cash, teams head to the grocery store to hunt for ingredients, making strategic choices to stay within budget without compromising on flavor. It's a race against the clock and the wallet as everyone hustles to whip up delicious dishes that are as budget-friendly as they are tasty.
Mystery Munch Potluck
Friends and family come together for a thrilling culinary experience. Everyone should agree on a themed category, whether it's savory snacks, delectable desserts, or any other tantalizing treats. Here's the twist: each guest keeps their dish a secret until the big reveal at the gathering! It's a recipe for excitement, as everyone eagerly anticipates the diverse array of mystery dishes waiting to be savored. With surprises at every turn, Mystery Munch Potluck promises a chaotic yet incredibly fun-filled feast for all!
Don’t let money or time be the thing that decides whether or not you will have fun.
Comparison is the thief of joy; measuring your summer against someone else's won't make yours any better. Instead, enjoy whatever activities you choose, stick to your budget, and give yourself permission to be the happiest version of yourself this summer.
Embrace the moments, big and small, and let the spirit of adventure and imagination guide you. Whether you're exploring new trails, creating art with friends, or savoring a homemade meal, remember that the best summer memories are made from joy, creativity, and the company of those you love.